Developing Generational Leaders

We are so Excited to say that “The Lord has done great things for us, and we are filled with joy,” just as it says in Psalm 126:3. It has been a challenging season yet very rewarding and fulfilling. As we reach the midpoint of the year, our hearts overflow with gratitude for the incredible ways God has moved through Clarence Matheny Leadership Training Institute. What began in January with prayer and vision has unfolded into a season of remarkable impact, growth, and fresh opportunities for Kingdom advancement. We have touched so many church leaders, provided thousands of resources to the church, enrolled many more pastors in Bible college, and hosted the largest-ever Chaplains conference in the history of CMM, with 1,700 church leaders. We are stretched but really excited about what the Lord has done. Thank you for praying and supporting the work here in Africa. Here is a bit more detail on where we are so far in the year! In terms of Church Leaders Impacted From the first quarter to our most recent gatherings, God has entrusted us with the opportunity to pour into the lives of 3,691 leaders so far this year. First Quarter: 2,426 leaders trained and equipped VOSH June Meeting: 417 leaders Seme June Meeting: 375 leaders Western Kenya (Kakamega) June Meeting: 473 leaders Each number represents a pastor, a leader, a Kingdom worker who is better equipped to transform their church and community. On Training & Recruitment – Preparing the Next Generation We have welcomed 30 new students into our Bible School this year, and the momentum continues. In the coming month, we have planned to reach 1,500 pastors through our targeted training efforts. Already, we are prayerfully preparing for a powerful August, hosting two large youth camps, each expecting over 600 youth—a significant investment into the leaders of tomorrow. Resourcing Pastors – Multiplying Kingdom Tools Our Pastors’ Resource Ministry has experienced a record flow of Bibles, books, and study materials into the hands of church leaders across Kenya. In the first seven months of this year alone, we have distributed 19,766 resources—each one a tool for deeper discipleship and stronger preaching. Yes, almost 20,000 book resources to Pastors! Glory to God. Highlights from January to July: January: 3,445 resources (including 1,604 Bibles) February: 3,080 resources March: 5,006 resources (including 36 Study Bibles & 14 Commentaries) April: 2,310 resources May: 1,982 resources June: 2,840 resources July: 1,103 resources These resources are not just numbers—they are seeds planted in fertile ground, destined to produce an abundant harvest. Finally, here is what is coming: an incredible next quarter with Count Me In Teens camp expected to have 1,000 teenagers, Fearless camp with 500, youth leaders, Nation2Nation conference with 500 pastors (already fully booked), and our September leadership conference with a Powerful teaching team from Australia and Dr. Murphy Matheny. We are humbled, encouraged, and deeply thankful. Every prayer, every partnership, and every resource shared is part of the story God is writing through Clarence Matheny Leadership Training Institute. Together, we are raising leaders who will disciple nations, preach the Word with power, and shepherd God’s people with wisdom and love. “Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us…” – Ephesians 3:20 (NIV) To God be the glory for the great things He has done—and for the greater things yet to come! We Love YALL ! Bishop Chola and The CMM team.

Greetings Mission Barnabas and CMM supporters, This update comes in two parts: one from me and one from Pastor Chola. So much is happening that it won’t fit in a single email. I get to go first; Pastor Chola’s will follow soon. Update from Ronnie We want to share highlights from the ministry in East Africa so far in 2025! But first, a personal note: thank you to everyone who prayed and stood in faith with us during a recent heart issue. After a routine checkup, my doctor ordered three heart tests, which revealed four blockages. On July 23, the cardiologist placed a stent in a main artery that was 100% blocked. I could tell you several stories of God’s grace through this, but removing that main blockage was a miracle in itself. The cardiologist almost gave up — which would have meant open-heart surgery — but he said, “Suddenly, it gave way.” When I heard “suddenly,” I knew it was because of so many prayers from around the world. God gave the breakthrough through the doctor’s hands. I truly feel like I’ve been given a new lease on life. They told me I was a “heart attack candidate,” but now I feel better every day. We’ve made big lifestyle changes: no fried or processed foods, maybe ice cream once a year, daily exercise, and managing stress. I’d still appreciate your prayers as I walk this journey. Because of all this, Debbie and I won’t return to Kenya until January. I’ll miss the September pastors’ conference — my first in 21 years — and the fall Bible College semester. But our incredible CMM staff and team are fully equipped, so ministry won’t miss a beat. I’ll also stay connected virtually and work on projects from here to keep supporting the vision. Meanwhile, Count Me In is underway at CMM right now, with over 800 teenagers from across Kenya attending. On the first night alone, more than 200 gave their lives to Christ or recommitted to following Him. What an incredible thing to hear while I’m here in the States! Lastly, mark your calendars for November 4th — the Mission Barnabas Banquet ! The Kenyans will be here, and we have so much good news to share. With gratitude, Ronnie & Debbie